Sublease, assignment or relet: know which deal you’re making.
People often use these words interchangeably. The legal and financial consequences may be different, and the lease plus local law control.
Sublease
The original tenant commonly remains on the primary lease and may stay responsible to the landlord even when a subtenant occupies the space.
Lease assignment
An assignment generally transfers the tenant’s remaining lease interest to a replacement, but landlord approval and continuing liability rules vary.
Relet
In a relet, the old tenancy is ended and the landlord enters a new lease with the replacement tenant. New screening, fees and terms may apply.
Before you proceed
- Read the primary lease and any addenda.
- Get required landlord or property-manager consent in writing.
- Confirm rent, deposit, utilities, dates, keys, condition and application fees.
- Ask a qualified local attorney about legal questions.
This article is general education, not legal advice.